Payroll Administrator (Contract)

JOB DESCRIPTION
Reporting to the Payroll Supervisor, the Payroll Administrato r (Contract) will be responsible for end‑to‑end payroll processing and providing comprehensive administrative support across all payroll activities. This role ensures accurate payroll execution, timely employee lifecycle processing, journal entries in the accounting system and continuous improvement of payroll templates and processes. The successful candidate is highly proficient in Microsoft Excel and comfortable using AI tools to improve efficiency, accuracy, and analysis.
What We Offer
• Employee & Family Assistance Program
• Product Purchase Program
• Opportunities to take part in job-related training and development
• Growth & progression opportunities within the larger J.D. Irving group of companies (if applicable)
RESPONSIBILITIES
Payroll Processing & Employee Lifecycle

• Process full-cycle payroll accurately and on schedule in compliance with applicable legislation and company policies
• Set up new hires in payroll and HR systems, ensuring accurate pay, deductions, and benefits
• Process employee terminations, including final pay calculations and issuance of Records of Employment (ROEs)
• Maintain accurate employee payroll records and respond to payroll-related inquiries

Payroll Reporting & Analysis

• Prepare and post payroll-related journal entries
• Develop, maintain, and update payroll analysis sheets to support reconciliation, reporting, and audits
• Assist with payroll costing, variance analysis, and internal reporting as required

Invoicing & Templates

• Prepare and process payroll-related invoices with accuracy and attention to detail
• Create, update, and maintain payroll templates, spreadsheets, and standard documents
• Continuously improve templates and workflows to enhance efficiency and data integrity

Administrative & Payroll Support

• Provide administrative support across all payroll activities, including documentation, tracking, and reporting
• Support audits, reviews, and compliance requests related to payroll
• Collaborate with HR, Finance, and other departments to resolve payroll issues and improve processes

Technology & Process Improvement

• Use advanced Microsoft Excel functions (e.g., formulas, pivot tables, lookups) to manage and analyze payroll data
• Leverage AI tools to automate repetitive tasks, improve accuracy, and streamline payroll and reporting processes
• Identify opportunities for continuous improvement in payroll systems, processes, and controls

QUALIFICATIONS
Required Qualifications:

• Proven experience in payroll processing, including new hires and terminations
• Strong knowledge of Records of Employment (ROEs) and payroll compliance requirements
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel
• Experience preparing journal entries, analysis sheets, and invoices
• Strong attention to detail and high level of accuracy
• Ability to manage confidential information with discretion and professionalism

Preferred Qualifications

• Payroll certification (e.g., PCP or equivalent) - preferred, but not required
• Experience in a multi‑payroll environment (Canadian and US payroll)
• Familiarity with payroll and accounting systems
• Knowledge of payroll benefits and labor laws (Canada and US)
• Demonstrated experience using AI tools to support administrative, analytical, or payroll functions

Key Competencies

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Excellent organizational and time-management abilities
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively
• Continuous improvement mindset with a focus on efficiency and accuracy

ABOUT US
Founded in 1882, J.D. Irving, Limited (JDI) operates in Eastern Canada (New-Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, Québec, Ontario, Newfoundland and Labrador), as well as in USA. We are a team of 20,000 dedicated employees. At J.D. Irving, Limited, you are part of a dynamic team of professionals who lead with integrity and are passionate about delivering results. With a culture that nurtures talent and creates an inclusive workplace, you can grow your career across our various operating divisions.
We are committed to creating accessible environments for our colleagues, candidates, and customers. Requests for accommodation due to a disability (which may be visible or invisible, temporary, or permanent) can be made at any stage of application and employment. We encourage candidates to make their accommodation needs known so that we can provide equitable opportunities.
Worried you do not meet all the requirements? Studies have shown that many applicants apply only to job opportunities when they feel they meet 100% of the criteria. We promote an inclusive environment where everyone is appreciated, recognized, and empowered to contribute fully. If you are interested in this position but are worried you did not meet all the requirements, we would encourage you to still apply.
Our recruitment advisors and hiring teams will utilize human screening combined with AI technology to help identify the skills and qualities that matter most to our business, while safeguarding your privacy and using AI responsibly.
We appreciate your interest in our company however only those candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.
ABOUT THE TEAM
At Protrans Personnel Services Inc. , we recognize that the key to our success is our people. Protrans is a full-service, premium recruitment agency specializing in transportation, warehousing and distribution, manufacturing, and administrative placements. We pride ourselves in providing people solutions to help our customers meet their goals, and match employees with reward career opportunities.